Argentina trio and Gavi face potential bans after World Cup final clash – FIFA opens disciplinary case

FIFA has launched a disciplinary investigation into several Argentina players, a member of their coaching staff and Spain midfielder Gavi following confrontations after the 2026 World Cup final.

The match, in which Spain secured their second World Cup title, ended with heated altercations between players from both sides once the final whistle confirmed victory for La Roja.

According to the BBC, world governing body FIFA has appointed a specialist ethics and disciplinary prosecutor to examine the incidents that took place after the final.

Based on the prosecutor’s recommendation, FIFA has opened proceedings against Argentina defenders Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes, along with Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala, in relation to alleged assaults under Article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

Molina is facing two separate counts, while Paredes has been charged with three alleged offences under the same article. Ayala, who serves on Lionel Scaloni’s coaching staff, has been cited for one alleged breach linked to assault.

DAZN had previously reported that significant disciplinary fallout was “almost certain” in the wake of the post-match clashes involving players and staff from both finalists.

Unsporting conduct charges

In addition to the alleged assault-related charges, Molina is also the subject of disciplinary action over one count of suspected unsporting behaviour, again under Article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

The same alleged offence of unsporting conduct has been levelled at Argentina forward Thiago Almada and Spain midfielder Gavi.

The specific details of the incidents involving Almada and Gavi have not been disclosed in the reports, but they relate to events that occurred after the conclusion of the final.

Under the FIFA Disciplinary Code, players and officials found guilty of unsporting conduct face a minimum suspension of one match. In cases of assault, the code stipulates a minimum ban of three matches.

Possible sanctions for Argentina FA

FIFA’s scrutiny is not limited to individuals. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is also facing disciplinary proceedings over potential infringements committed in several matches during the 2026 World Cup.

Those alleged violations include the display of a banner reading “Las Malvinas son argentinas” (“The Malvinas Islands are Argentine”) during the tournament.

Any sanctions arising from the case against the AFA could range from fines to more severe measures, depending on FIFA’s assessment of the breaches and their gravity.

FIFA has not yet announced when final decisions on the charges will be made or whether any potential suspensions would apply to upcoming international fixtures or other competitions under its jurisdiction.

All those named remain subject to investigation, and no guilt has been established at this stage.